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Reasons Why Arsenal Could Finish In The Top 4 This Season

Aug 05 2018

The Spaniard told reporters after overseeing a 2-0 friendly victory over Lazio in Stockholm: "My focus is on the first match and preparing, and not for the window and the possibility to sign another player".

Yet this was an inexperienced Arsenal team and during a fraught opening period, Emery's side struggled to piece together concerted periods of possession and they afforded Lazio more clear openings than the new manager would have liked.

It has certainly been a positive first pre-season at Arsenal for Unai Emery.

"Speaking on Twitter, Maddock said: "[There is] no LFC interest in Aaron Ramsey - no chance of any further Liverpool signings before the window closes.

Arsenal's forward players always looked a threat in this system, with youngsters Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson looking particularly sharp. It made for an interesting encounter, with Arsenal exhibiting numerous ways of beating the press.

"For the new manager it's going to be a very big challenge; the fans want them to perform in the league in his first year, which is always hard for a new coach".

Nigeria winger, Alex Iwobi admits he has to be more professional and prove himself under new boss Unai Emery after sparking fury from fans last season.

Chelsea will face Manchester City at Wembley on Sunday in the Community Shield before another International Champions Cup match, against French side Lyon, at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.

Lazio were having their moments though, with Senad Lulic causing problems in midfield. Matteo Guendouzi's performance in this pre-season and this game as well will have satisfied Emery and Arsenal fans alike.

If it were in doubt before tonight's game, then Bernd Leno has just put out a big statement to be Arsenal's No.1 goalkeeper ahead of Petr Cech this season.

He said: "We have players like Nacho, but he arrived late from the World Cup and also has a small injury".